Good second-half effort overwhelms Old Grammarians

Hendon 28

Old Grammarians 6

HENDON produced a much-improved second half performance to see off closest challengers Old Grammarians in Saturday's Herts Middlesex League division clash at Copthall.

Lee Linale's leaders had not played a league game since mid-November and they looked, understandably, off the pace in the first period, despite leading 7-3 at the break.

"We looked somewhat rusty from no league rugby for almost a month," said Hendon president David Gershlick. "We moved up a gear after an indifferent first half to remain top."

Despite the slow start, Hendon eventually opened the scoring with a try from hooker Joel Curry after a telling break from second row Aiden Doyle. Lee Linale converted for 7-0.

But the Old Boys finished the half the stronger and after their No. 8 had been held up over the line, they kicked a penalty to leave the half-time score 7-3.

After the break, Hendon continued to struggle and Grammarians, using their heavier pack to good effect, cut the deficit to a point with their second penalty.

But Hendon regrouped and flanker Jamie Connolly seized on a loose pass from a long lineout and raced inside to touch down for an unconverted try.

Shortly afterwards, Cosy Mutuma picked up from a five- metre scrum, exchanged passes with Walowicz before scoring another unconverted try for a 17-6 advantage.

The home side were now in command, Ben Linale adding two penalties to extend their lead to 23-6.

Hendon rounded off the scoring in the closing minutes when Lee Linale surged over from 30- metres for another unconverted try.

On Saturday, Hendon entertain Old Thamesians in a re-arranged Middlesex Vase quarter-final tie at Copthall.

Hendon: B Linale, Walowicz (Handley), Carter, Blake, Cremin, Middleton, L Linale, Gilbride, Curry, Carroll, Doyle (Patten), McEnemy, Light, Connolly, Mutama.